Triathlon is a sport that has the capability to change lives and improve your physical, mental and social health, and all it takes is taking that leap and joining a club near you.
Amanda Croft has experienced this exact lifestyle change.
After competing in a TriPink event in October 2024, Amanda joined Carina Leagues Triathlon Club, falling in love with the sport.
“We signed up for the Learn to Tri program at Carina Leagues Triathlon Club, and from there, things just exploded,” Croft said.
“I caught the triathlon bug hard – before I knew it, I was training daily, competing, and, of course, spending an outrageous amount of money on all the gear.
“The passion for the sport is real, and there’s something about the challenge and the community that just kept pulling me in deeper.
“It went from being a fun thing to do with my girlfriend to a full-on obsession!”
Since taking the plunge, Amanda’s triathlon highlight came from the elation she felt after hitting a milestone after many hours of hard work.
“My favourite memory has to be the first time I hit a major milestone in training after weeks of doubt and hard work,” she said.
“I’d been pushing myself daily, and when I finally smashed my time goal in the Raby Bay Race, it was such a rewarding moment.
“It really showed me just how much my body can do when I push past what my mind thinks is possible.
“It was that ‘wow, I can do this’ moment that really stuck with me.
“I had never been exposed to triathlon before – I’d done a bit of cycling in the past, but I had zero experience with running or swimming, so to hit that milestone felt even more special given how much I had to learn along the way.”
Since Completing the TriPink event, Amanda recommends this event to anyone new to the sport and is grateful for the development of her club in recent times to help members grow.
“Competing in the TriPink event in Brisbane was an incredible experience,” she said.
“The atmosphere is so supportive and fun – it really brings women from all walks of life together.
“It’s such a positive environment to be a part of, and it’s all about encouraging one another.
“For someone just starting out, TriPink is a great way to dip your toes into the sport of triathlon.
“The community is welcoming and empowering, making it less intimidating for beginners.
“Compared to other events I’ve participated in, TriPink stands out because of its inclusivity and the sense of camaraderie – it’s a perfect entry point for anyone new to the sport.”
With the Mooloolaba triathlon on the horizon, Amanda and many of her club members have been working through the club’s tailored training program in preparation for the event.
“The Mooloolaba Triathlon is a major race for our club with most of the adult squad participating in either the sprint or the standard distance.
“Having a major race where there are both distances offered on separate days means that everyone is there over the weekend to cheer each other on.
“For our community to have the opportunity to learn under the guidance of experienced coaches and with the support of other club members means that for new people they are given the absolute best opportunity to enjoy the learning process and the race on the day!
“There is nothing better than having a cheer squad cheer you on up over those hills at Moo Tri.”
By joining a triathlon club, you are welcomed into an incredible community, and Amanda thanks the support and guidance she has received from her triathlon community for helping her change her life for the better.
“Aside from my love for the sport, being part of the triathlon community has been about finding my tribe,” Croft said.
“The support and guidance I’ve received from more experienced triathletes has been invaluable.
“It’s also where I’ve created friendships with people who share the same passion.
“This community constantly pushes me to aim higher, both in training and in events, helping me realise what I’m capable of.
“The sense of belonging and mutual respect within the club has made me feel like I’m part of something bigger, and that’s something I truly value.”
To anyone who is considering joining a triathlon club near them, Amanda shared that it is the best way to experience the sport and allows you to push yourself to new milestones.
“I’d recommend joining a club or starting out with an Enticer event to test the waters,” she said.
“A club is a fantastic way to get into the sport because it provides structured, skills-specific training that will help you improve in all areas – whether it’s swimming, cycling, or running.
“Plus, starting with an Enticer event is a great way to ease into triathlon at a pace that suits you, while still pushing yourself to do more than you might think possible.
“You’ll be surprised at how much you can achieve with the right coaches, training and mindset.
“Personally, I started with TriPink in October 2024, and now I’ve taken the leap and registered for the Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast in September – proving that with the right club, determination, and consistency, you can accomplish far more than you thought possible.”
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
